Interview: Yasmin

23-year-old Yasmin Shahmir kicked off 2012 with the Shy FX-produced Light Up (The World).  With her debut album also due for release this year, Fuse FM caught up with her to chat about her career to date, and what else 2012 has in store.

2011 was a crazy year for you, is there one moment that stands out as your favorite?

It’s just too hard to pick one moment,  There were so many highlights, the whole year was just one big experience.

What do you make of all the support you have received in this first big year of your career?

I have had the chance to work with so many great people.  The support was everything and without it I wouldn’t be here.  I feel so lucky and I really am so grateful.

Your vocals first came to light on Devlin’s track, runaway, how did that come about?

I had worked quite a lot with the producers of the record, Future Cut, and popped up to the studio to see them when I was in the area.  While I was there they played me what they had been working on with Devlin and it was Runaway.  At that point there was no chorus on it and there was a little space.  I has an idea for it and sang it to them and they loved it.

And you worked with Labrinth on Finishline, what was that like?

Labrinth is just a musical genius, it was such a pleasure to work with him. He really brings out the best in you and manages to make a really original sound for every artist he works with.

Tell us about the MOBOBs, not only were you nominated for an award but you also presented one.

The MOBOs were just incredible.  They were so supportive of me and it was amazing to be nominated for an award amongst all the amazing names.  On the day I got to present an award which was lots of fun.  It’s quite funny that everyone since then has said they didn’t realise how tall I was but really it was presenting with Adam Deacon, Tinchy and Dappy, the three shortest guys, that made me look super tall.

Your latest single Light up the World has just been released this week, what else can we expect from you in 2012?

In 2012 you can expect, more music, more shows, more collaborations and more fun.

How is work on the new album coming along?

It is coming along really well and I’m just putting finishing touches on it at the minute.  I have written lots in the last year and I’m really just trying to cut them down to create an album that I am perfectly happy with.

Have you seen yourself develop as an artist in the process of writing the album?

The whole year has been one of self discovery and awareness.  Everyday I’m getting better at writing and improving my singing.  It has also been a great year for the growth of my image, as well as my music.  I do my own hair and make-up and feel very comfortable with everything that I am right now. 

We have heard that you have recently worked with Jamie XX, can you tell us anything about this?

I worked with him over a year ago.  We got into the studio for three days and made three songs, they will definitely be seeing the light of day this year in one way or another.

Have you got any advice for anyone at Manchester University who is trying to break into the music industry?

My big piece of advice would be to have a DIY attitude. No-one wants you to do well as much as you do.  You need to work hard at all times, no matter who your working with and even when no-one else is working with you.  And, of course, always believe in yourself. 

And one final question - can we expect to see you around Manchester anytime soon?

There is nothing in the diary at the minute but I will definitely be getting out on tour this year so keep checking the website, www.yasminsworld.co.uk , for updates.